How To Make A Trap Pop Song (blackbear, Post Malone, The Weeknd) + FREE STEMS | Make Pop Music

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to produce a trap-pop song inspired by artists like blackbear, Post Malone, and The Weeknd. Using techniques demonstrated in Austin's single "Peace of Mind," you'll learn how to create your own track while having access to free project stems and resources. This guide will cover essential steps in music production, from sound selection to arrangement.

Step 1: Gather Your Resources

Before diving into production, it's crucial to have the right tools and materials.

• Download Free Stems: Access the project stems and samples from the provided link. This will give you a head start by allowing you to use pre-made sounds.
• Choose Your DAW: Austin uses Cubase, but feel free to use any Digital Audio Workstation you are comfortable with.
• Setup Your MIDI Keyboard: Ensure your MIDI keyboard is connected and functioning to streamline your workflow.

Step 2: Select Your Sounds

The next step involves selecting the right sounds that fit the trap-pop genre.

• Drum Samples: Choose punchy kick, snappy snare, and crisp hi-hat samples. Look for sounds that have a modern trap vibe.
• Melodic Elements: Pick synths or instruments that have a smooth, catchy quality. Consider using pads, leads, and basses that complement the trap sound.
• Vocal Samples: Explore vocal chops or hooks that can add an engaging element to your track.

Step 3: Create a Basic Beat

Now that you have your sounds, it’s time to lay down a basic rhythm.

• Kick and Snare Pattern: Start with a standard four-on-the-floor kick pattern. Add snares on the 2nd and 4th beats to create a solid backbone.
• Hi-Hat Variation: Incorporate 16th note hi-hats with occasional triplets to add energy and dynamics. Experiment with velocity to create a more human feel.
• Layering: Consider layering additional percussion sounds to enhance the complexity of your beat.

Step 4: Build Your Melodies

Next, focus on crafting catchy melodies that align with the trap-pop style.

• Chord Progressions: Start with a simple chord progression. Use a combination of major and minor chords to evoke emotion.
• Main Melody: Create a lead melody that is memorable and complements the chord progression. Experiment with different synth sounds until you find one that resonates.
• Bassline: Design a bassline that follows the root notes of your chords, adding depth to your track.

Step 5: Arrange Your Track

With your core elements in place, it's time to arrange your track.

• Structure: Follow a typical pop song structure: Intro, Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Outro.
• Transitions: Use risers, impacts, and breaks to create smooth transitions between sections. This adds flow and keeps listeners engaged.
• Dynamics: Vary the intensity of different sections to maintain interest. Use automation to adjust volume, effects, and filter sweeps.

Step 6: Mix and Master Your Track

The final step is to mix and master your song for a polished sound.

• Mixing: Balance the levels of each track, add EQ to clean up frequencies, and apply compression to control dynamics. Ensure clarity between vocals and instruments.
• Effects: Use reverb and delay to add space and depth to your sounds. Be careful not to overdo it; subtlety is key.
• Mastering: Once mixed, make sure your final track is loud enough and polished. Use a limiter to ensure no clipping occurs.

Conclusion

You’ve now learned how to produce a trap-pop song inspired by popular artists. By gathering the right resources, selecting suitable sounds, creating engaging melodies, arranging your track, and finally mixing and mastering, you can create a polished and professional-sounding song. Don’t forget to use the free stems and project files to enhance your production! Now, it’s time to put your skills into practice and experiment with your unique sound. Happy producing!